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EuroLeague Shocker: Unknowns Lead the Pack!
9 Jan
Summary
- Hapoel Tel Aviv and Valencia share the top EuroLeague spot with 13-6 records.
- Neither team has significant European basketball pedigree.
- Real Madrid and Panathinaikos, usually dominant, are outside the top five.
The 2025/26 EuroLeague campaign has delivered a stunning twist, as Hapoel Tel Aviv and Valencia currently lead the standings, both holding impressive 13-6 records. This marks a significant departure from the norm, as neither team possesses a substantial pedigree at the top European level. Hapoel is making its debut appearance this season, while Valencia has only reached the quarterfinals once before.
Upstart teams are stealing the spotlight. Hapoel's strong performance, highlighted by a dominant defensive effort and potent offense, is further evidenced by their remarkable 7-2 road record. Valencia has matched this success with a formidable 9-1 home record, turning their arena into a fortress. Their unexpected rise has seen their championship odds dramatically shorten, though they still trail the favorites significantly.
Traditional giants are faltering in this unexpected season. Real Madrid, an 11-time champion, finds itself in sixth place, experiencing its worst start in two decades despite significant summer spending. Panathinaikos, an eight-time champion, is in seventh place, dealing with injuries and internal strife. Olympiacos, with three titles, sits in eighth, struggling to overcome slow starts and losing crucial board battles.
